SABIC expands portfolio with majority stake acquisition in Fibre Reinforced Thermoplastics

08-Mar-16

Petrochemical giant Sabic has expanded its portfolio of materials with the acquisition of a majority stake in Netherlands-based Fibre Reinforced Thermoplastics. Financial terms for the acquisition were not disclosed. Ernesto Occhiello, Sabic’s executive vice president, Specialties, said: “This acquisition will enable Sabic to develop new thermoplastic products, processes and design solutions to help our customers take full advantage of the unique light weighting opportunities offered by composites.” Sabic’s Fibre Reinforced Thermoplastics (FRT) business specialises in the production of engineered thermoplastic, fibre-reinforced uni-directional (UD) tapes used in industries ranging from building and construction, to transportation and energy. Andrey Turchin, head of Sabic’s FRT business, said: “Our innovative Udmax composite tapes complement Sabic’s existing range of thermoplastic solutions for customers striving to build smaller, lighter and stronger components that meet stringent industry standards.” Sabic said its Udmax tapes were made in a process that enabled the speedy spread and combination of thousands of glass or carbon fibres with a polymer matrix, which meant the tapes had high density – and fewer broken – fibres. The tapes could be used for laminates and moulded parts, the firm added.